The Best Punching Bags
In order to become a lean, mean, fighting machine, you're going to need the right training and the right hardware. That's why we recommend punching bags to anyone that wants to get into fighting shape. Even pacifists agree that punching bags are a great way to relieve stress and develop reflexes and strength. So for those on the hunt for the perfect pick, we've whittled down the options to the best of the best. Read on to discover our favorite punching bags, from the best on a budget to the premium pick.
Dripex Freestanding Punching Bag 69″
Dripex doesn't tap out
Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner. The Dripex Freestanding punching bag has all the features that we look for and more. This tall, 69-inch punching bag fills with sand or water for sturdy sparring. And once it’s set up and ready for a pummeling, there are suction cups on the bottom for added stability. Made from high-quality materials, the entire unit features a resilient construction that can really take a beating. Best of all, the upgraded shock-absorption tech is sublime, with a set of four springs that absorbs both punches and sounds. When a punching bag of this caliber comes along for such a bargain price, we say nab one while you can.
Pros
- Great value for the price, considering the durability.
- The springs are designed to absorb shocks and sounds, so it’s a great choice for those concerned about the noise.
- High-quality materials include 2mm-thick PU leather, high-density foam, and an eco-friendly inner fabric.
Cons
- Not quite as stable when filled with water, so you’ll have to get a few bags of sand. Fortunately, sand is cheap.
Everlast 70-Pound MMA Heavy-Bag Kit
A heavy bag for the heavy-hitters
You’ve probably already heard of Everlast. They’ve served the boxing community for decades and have developed a big reputation for quality training equipment. With this heavyweight option, the Everlast legacy lives on. This 70-pound punching bag is the real deal, sporting super durable materials and the perfect amount of shock absorption. It even comes with a pair of classic Everlast punching gloves and hand wraps to get you started on your road to the big leagues.
Pros
- Everlast is a trusted company that offers a 120-day warranty on its products.
- With a 70-pound weight and a tough construction, this heavyweight bag can handle an endless barrage of attacks.
- Comes with a quality pair of gloves and hand wraps.
Cons
- If you don’t already have something from which to hang it, you’ll have to buy either a stand or a ceiling bracket.
Protocol Punching Bag with Stand for Adults & Kids
Keep the kids moving
Beating the crud out of a punching bag is a healthy way to relieve stress and stay fit. That’s why we recommend something that the whole family can take turns laying into. This junior-sized punching bag from Protocol features an adjustable stand to accommodate fighters of different heights. A bit more fun than traditional designs, the bag rebounds with a satisfying spring, so you can work on your rhythm and form. Easy to set up and kind on the wallet, this affordable pick helps prove that the family that fights together, stays together.
Pros
- Safe and inexpensive, this big provides a great way for both youngsters and adults to relieve stress.
- Includes youth-sized gloves to protect the hands and a hand pump to inflate the bag.
- Setup is really fast and adjusting the height of the pole is easy.
Cons
- Obviously not as heavy-duty as the more premium options, but a worthy punching bag nonetheless.
Accodone Freestanding
The bag that bounces back
Another great overall option, the Accodone Freestanding punching bag sports the perfect amount of bounce and rebound. Thanks to the three tight springs, wide base, and RVC shock absorber, this option rocks back and returns quickly with every punch. Unlike the super heavyweight options, this one reacts with a bit more give and can really help in the development of reflexes and rhythm. Made from high-quality materials that are thick and tear-resistant, the Accodone punching bag always bounces back.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing springs reduce noise and deliver a satisfying bounce and rebound during training.
- Made out of premium materials, it’s another durable and long-lasting option.
- The base of the unit is designed for an easy tip-and-roll when you want to move it around, which makes it ideal for those with limited space.
Cons
- For the real heavy-hitters, you’ll need to find a surface that the suction cups can grip.
Everlast Powercore Free Standing
A premium bag for a premium price
Everlast is back, this time with their heavy-duty premium option. Ideal for those ready to take things to the next level, the Powercore punching bag features an air-foam stuffing that feels “realistic”. In other words, it’s designed to feel like you’re punching a real person. However, unlike a real person, this punching bag doesn’t fall over or punch back. The high-volume base can fill up with 250 pounds of water or 370 pounds of sand, so you’re guaranteed to have a sparring buddy that won’t tap out.
Pros
- Absorbs impact like a champion which makes this sturdy option a good choice for power punchers.
- The premium construction uses air-foam for a “realistic feel”.
- The bag adjusts to different heights (54 to 65 inches), so you can work on your punches and kicks in the same workout session.
Cons
- Maximum height might be too short for folks taller than 6 feet, but you can always throw some high-density mats or plywood underneath to add a couple of inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are freestanding punching bags sturdy?
The freestanding punching bags are designed to stand on their own, but some really heavy punches could theoretically topple them over. If you’re worried about wobble, make sure to fill the base with sand. Sand is heavier than water, so it should give the punching bag greater stability. Also, if your freestanding punching bag comes with suction cups on the bottom, make sure to install it on a surface that the suction cups can grip.
Will I need to assemble the punching bag?
All of the options on our list require some minor assembly. Fortunately, it’s fairly simple to put everything together and you won’t need any fancy tools. Again, for the freestanding bags, we strongly recommend filling them with sand rather than water.
If you opt for a hanging bag, you’ll have to invest in a quality bracket from which to hang the bag. There are tons of great resources on the internet for installing a bracket, so we suggest conducting a quick web search to make sure you know what you’re doing. With that said, don’t be intimidated; a bracket installation is one of the more beginner-friendly DIY undertakings.
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